Eric Mason Kennan of Hollywood, Fla., died unexpectedly on April 6 at the age of 45.

He was born Dec. 28, 1963, in Oak Bluffs, the son of Robert and Judith Kennan, now residing in East Hartford, Conn. Eric was one of six children; he had four older brothers and one younger sister.

Eric adored his children. He had a natural love for all earth’s creatures, nature and the ocean, and had a true passion for fishing. After successfully completing an apprenticeship program he went on to be a master painter and operated his own business. Eric appreciated being part of a large family and loved being around his family.

He enjoyed coming back to the Island where he was born and where his adventure began. His family and friends will miss his caring nature, free spirit, sense of adventure and humor.

Besides his parents, Eric is survived by his children, Erica Kennan of Tallahasse, Fla., Brandi Lee Kennan of Hollywood, Fla., and Louis Kennan and Samantha Perkins of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; brothers Robert Kennan of Bristol, Conn., and Richard Kennan and his wife Patricia of Enfield, Conn.; a sister Heidi Rydzewski and her husband Matthew of Vineyard Haven; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his older brothers William and Ronald Kennan.

A memorial service is planned for April 25 at the First Congregational Church of Vernon, UCC, in Connecticut.